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The cool waiter of the restaurant next door recommended this place. When you come in the entrance you have to guess the secret word. The night I went the clue was a specific kind of food and we had to named it's three ingredients.They have two rules I can remember no flash photos and order at the bar. I came here to celebrate my friends bday and it was a nice bar where we were able to have a drink and talk without yelling at each other. This was the night of a world cup game and we were trying to avoid the crowds. They have no TVs and it's dim red lighting makes it an intimate environment. The seating are makes it easy for large groups or couples to sit comfortably.
The Speakeasy is a hidden cocktail bar located in Old Town Pasadena. To get here, look for the "New York Deli" sign and you'll likely see a person standing out front. You will need to reach out to the bar via email to get the password, but you can also get a hint from the person at the front. We got our hint and successfully guessed it, gaining entry. The interior has dark lounge lighting with tables throughout. I got the gotham standard manhattan ($16) which was strong and spirit forward. We came right when they opened so it was very empty, but the bartender mentioned it gets really packed and lively on weekends. If I came back and was able to guess the password I'd stop by when it's more energetic for a different vibe.
Very cool place, perfect for date nights or even to try the actual speak easy experience, they have a very good selection of cocktails and a full bar to enjoy any drink basically, they have tables that are open sitting or bar area. The place is always nice and clean, their staff also are very friendly and helpful.
Such a great place! Atmosphere was beautifully dimly lit, decor was perfect, and drinks pretty and delicious. Service was also very good. Would definitely recommend and cannot wait to go back.
I came to this magical little place with my girl friends to celebrate a birthday. Only the three of us but we wanted a drink to end the night with a vibe. Boy did we win the jackpot! We came in around 6:30. They had just opened but the atmosphere was ready! Dark and moody with candles on the table, it was the perfect spot to grab a drink and catch up. Jeremy was our bartender and he was fantastic. Super chill and friendly and made us some amazing drinks based on a few preferences. Our "bartenders choice" drinks were amazing, so much so that our "drink to end the night" turned into two drinks and some appetizers. We ordered taquitos and mozzarella sticks. Overall all three of us ladies loved this place! We definitely plan to be back! Let Jeremy make you a drink - you won't regret it. He makes them custom for you and he definitely knows what he is doing. *they do ask for a password which you can request on their website... but I would do that 24-48 hours before you plan to visit. We didn't have that days password and simply asked the front door.
This was such a cute place decked out in Chinese decor! It's absolutely a speakeasy, you need a code to get in so make sure you go through the proper steps for that. Go visit their website. It's a different name than what it is once you show up! The menu was festive as well! And they also had a DJ with some great music. It's fitting for a girls night out, a chill date night as they had food as well! We didn't get any food we went for drinks but it did look delicious! And parking was no issue, Pasadena has so many parking structures there's one right across the street!
The experience getting in was pretty cool. But other than that this place has no business calling itself a speakeasy in my opinion. None of the rules were followed by the crowd, no one was dressed up, music was EDM - in other words, this place does 0 things to transport you to the prohibition era. And I believe that is the whole point of going to a speakeasy, at least for me. Put that aside, it's a decent bar, music is not too loud so you can have a conversation, the interior has a nice atmosphere and decorations.
I may or may not have been here for cocktails before dinner last night. The fella standing in front of the boarded up storefront, who we passed twice before getting suspicious about why he was just standing there, he might or might not have been generous in giving us hints to "remember" the password. The interior may have been gorgeously post thanksgiving, the Naked & Fanous and the Manhattan may have been very solid. Or not, it may have just been a boarded-up storefront with a fella standing out in front.
Love coming here with friends. Love the strawberry surprise and kitty drink (without coconut). All of the bartenders are so nice! Jeremy is always so kind and makes amazing drinks that hit the spot every time :)
We decided to visit this speakeasy last minute after dinner nearby and it's one of those hidden gems where the experience starts even before you step foot inside. After looking up the place online, I found that we needed to email them for a password for entry. I had to send a quick polite email explaining why we wanted to visit, and surprisingly we received a response back almost immediately with the password, a few house rules, and the specific location details depending on whether we arrive before or after 9pm. I won't spoil with too many details! It's a prohibition-style bar and seating is a first come first served basis. We had to knock twice to provide the password and walk through, entering exactly how a speakeasy should be. There's dim lighting, vintage decor and overall cool vibes. Drinks were also decent! It's a large full bar, but also cozy enough inside to chat without needing to yell across each other like your typical bars.
Not so hidden speakeasy, but still such a vibe it came here on a Friday night. Gave the password and entered into a red room! Ordered our drinks and chilled for half an hour. Music was good and the ambience was super chill.
AHHH I freaking loved it! The bartenders were very attentive and fast. The atmosphere was very dim, calming but as well a very social environment. There dirty martinis were just as strong as I like it. Will go back one of these days. The best!
I love their secret code concept where you need to email them prior to going to receive a secret passcode in order to get into the bar. It makes the experience very exclusive and personal. Stepping inside feels like entering another world with the dim red lighting casting glowing crimson hues across the high ceiling. The environment creates an intimate, almost secretive atmosphere where the glow of the candles on each table invite you to be seated next to its subtle warmth. -Kitty Killer: a vibrant and sweet tropical drink reminding me of a berry fruit punch. The sweet berry and hint of pineapple take the center stage while a creamy hint of coconut balances the palate. The flavors are bright and refreshing compliment the floral smell of the dried Chrysanthemum on top. The cocktail is topped with a skewered berry assortment that I nibbled on after every sip. (9/10)
Great vibey place! Not super speakeasy-y in terms of finding it, but it is fun emailing for the entrance and password. If you don't have that, the bouncer will create a riddle for you to figure it out. Drinks are very fruity and sweet, if you like those this will 100% be your place!! Ambiance was dark and great to talk but the music got very loud around 10pm. We ended up leaving because we couldn't hear eachother even after shouting over the music. You can hear the music from outside. Would otherwise recommend! Maybe earlier in the night when it is still quieter. read more
We were looking for a fun bar to hang out at and happen to find The Speakeasy. After fumbling around for the password, we were given access to the hidden bar. Once inside we were impress with the amazing Halloween decor. It's very dark inside but it's all the vibe! They also serve food and the drinks are delicious! Definitely a fun place to visit and I highly recommend! read more
1 year ago
my friends and i forgot to email them for the password so we stepped right up and had to solve the riddle. once you get inside the ambiance is really nice albeit a little loud with the dj and everyone talking. menu is definitely roaring 20s/gatsby themed items. kitty killer was amazing as expected and so was the strawberry tequila! not too many food options tho read more
11 months ago
1 year ago
Came here with a few cousins and we Loved the energy in the place and how the staff didn't break character. Drinks were alright. Not the widest tequila options. Would definitely come back to try the food. read more
1 year ago
There are two entrance doors and one in the back alley where you can go through a kitchen to a secret door into the speakeasy. A secret password code is needed to get in with the bouncer. You can receive the password by emailing them from their website. Very cute and fun way to get in. Parking: street parking or paid parking garage It's a small bar and the ambience is very nice, great for hangouts. Drinks are all made in a cute way. Drink prices are decent. read more
1 year ago
4 years ago
The password is... Well it changes... In true hidden fashion The Speakeasy is a speakeasy that's outside appearance doesn't match the in. A red light special worthy of a 90s TLC video remake with candle lit tables, intimate ambiance and exceptional music... "We're so young, boy we ain't got nothin' to lose, oh, oh.... It's just principle"... Find a table first and then order drinks or eats at the bar. The signature cocktails are perfection though you can also enjoy some craft brews on draft or tap (like Julian's Cider for starters), alcohol free beverages including Voss, Perrier, Redbull, Sprite, Coke and I believe Ginger Beer. The Miss Mint Julep is by far a perfect Julep beverage with Toki Japanese Whiskey as the main base. Highly recommend Pablo's Poison (tequila with elderflower, oregano, lime, strawberry and jalapeno) in semi reimaged tiki drink style fashion. Classic well drinks are available (of course) and reasonable)... You can vibe out and take in the seduction of this well stocked den of souls. Great place for a date night, friend hang or a birthday excursion (as it was tonight for my friend Ozelle). We got here around 9:30ish and found some seating right away as a party of three (Ozelle, Matthew - one of my best friends and Ozelle's main squeeze, plus moi). We could've definitely managed a bigger table with a bigger group as well (early is best). The food is very bar style with fried comforts: fries, mozzarella sticks, tenders, taquitos, chips (no salsa) and some seafood. Not the best selection if you have any dietary restrictions for food like this guy, but some snackable options for all... Chips are good. Eating beforehand for a full meal is a great idea and there's an ample amount in Old Town Pasadena, including dessert. The bartenders were all top tier. It got really busy as the night went on and my last drink got botched (a well cocktail) but they offered to remake it and/or comp me a shot, which was amazing. Parking in the area isn't terrible and there's a few garages nearby. You're also not too far from the LA Metro Gold Line as well. The doorman was pretty friendly and helpful. I forgot to change my hat before leaving home as they do have a semi-restrictive dress attire. Next time I'll throw on my round brim or newsies cap and dress up even more (though it's more on the casual to dressy casual side) which would have been perfect... Especially when they play Fever... Speakeasy vibes times 100. "Never know how much I love you... Never know how much I care..." read more
1 year ago
2 years ago
Music was really fun and changed vibes throughout the night. Wasn't a fan of the cocktail menu they had out right now since it's all Irish/St Patty Day themed. However, if you let Kenji know what spirits you like then he'll make something you're sure to enjoy! read more
I came by on a Saturday night around 7 and there was no wait to get in. You need a password to enter where you could find on the website or email. They have lots of seating and service was quick. The ambiance was nice, the whole bar was lit up red. They have a menu with different drinks and I ordered the strawberry surprise cocktail. The cocktail was sweet and not too strong. I also tried the new bee's knees and it came in a super cute bear cup. It has a strong citrus flavor but it wasn't too bad. Overall, this is a nice speakeasy to visit if you are around the area. read more
6 months ago
1 year ago
4 years ago
My first speakeasy experience in Pasadena! We actually were meaning to go to their sister location (the cellar) but they were full. Luckily the doorman there gave us instructions on how to find The Speakeasy. The outside is supposed to look like a New York Deli, but it's more comedic than realistic with a few posters with pictures of subs on the windows. Once you guess the sub of the day, the doorman will let you inside. The ambience is very cool - dim red lighting with some candlelight at the tables. We ordered the My Lillet and Strawberry Surprise, both were fruity and delicious. The bartenders were friendly and prepared our drinks quickly. Once you get your drinks from the bar, you just head over to the tables and choose a seat. Minus one star because the music is REALLY LOUD - my friends and I literally had to yell at each other while sitting at the same table. The line for the restroom can be long too as there is only one stall per gender. Overall, a really fun experience and I'd definitely come back with some friends for a night out! read more
2 years ago
Probably one of my favorite bars in old town pasadena! The vibe is so cool! Place to go and have some handcrafted cocktails they have an array of herbs which they use as aromatics for there delicious drinks. All bartenders are very friendly and have a touch that makes the drinks different then a basic bar Management always there to assure a smooth night . Like I said the vibe is just right ! It is a must if ever in old town ! One more important thing! No fflashh read more
8 months ago
Love the vibes of this place. Password at the door. No wait staff so order at the bar and find a seat. I detest the name for this drink because I adore cats but kitty killer was the most delicious of the 4 I tried. My friend ordered the mojito and old fashion and we also got the strawberry lemonade drink. Overall it was a nice chill place. The drinks were a tickle. read more
4 years ago
This place is so fun! My friends were visiting from Hawaii and decided to bring them here since we were already eating in downtown Pasadena. How to get in: You can email them day of and right before you want to get in. They give you password and instructions on how to do it. Drinks/Service: Oh man, the drinks were so tasty and you can taste the quality! Everyone enjoyed their drinks. read more
3 years ago
"This place is like a dive bar disguised as speakeasy" I had high hopes for this Speakeasy. Unfortunately it fell short in all aspects besides the ambiance. Food - we ordered taquitos and a side of fry's. Tasted like store brand frozen food heated up. Drinks-The Killer Kitty, a whisky sour, and their strawberry surprise . Honestly wasn't what I was expecting out of a speakeasy the ingredients weren't fresh and could barely taste the alcohol. If you're in Pasadena and want to enjoy a good speakeasy I'd recommend going down the street to "ladies & Gentlemen" read more
9 months ago
I'm not sure if I would call it a speakeasy, but it's still a very cool bar to visit if you're in the area! It was fun to figure out the password to get in (the bouncer was funny and made it playful), and the dim lighting really creates that cool atmosphere. I liked the drinks we got, and the bartender was so nice despite how busy it was! Definitely a good experience, but there are better bars for socializing in the area. read more
This spot confused me... it's called "the speakeasy" and you need a password to get in or you solve the riddle by the nice bouncer, but then there's rules like no flash photography which I feel is just a normal consideration for others in general thing? They have rows and rows of alcohol but there's no common ones like a Tito's or Belvedere- instead you're offered Jason Mamoa's vodka which I didn't know existed. The place is trying so hard. The drinks on the menu are $14 each for a lot of mixology but if you order a vodka soda or tequila soda, that's also $14 - then there's a snack menu of deep fried things, it didn't feel like a speakeasy but the bartenders, servers and bouncer are very nice. If you're single and like yourself a frat guy- this is your spot. read more
2 years ago
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2 years ago
the vibes were there !!!! my boyfriend & I loved the drinks & service. The bartenders were super nice & quick with our drinks, we're definitely coming back ! read more
3 years ago
Enormous amount of licka with great customer service. Stumbled over this place and l9ved the atmosphere. Thanks Jeremy for a great intro read more
Easy-going and fun place for hanging out. The Strawberry Surprise was just that - the freshness of the strawberries surprisingly balanced out the drink, so it's refreshing and sweet without being overpowering. Bartender also mixed a custom drink for a friend based on a Negroni that was pretty nice and definitely better than what's offered on the menu. read more
3 years ago
We were around the area after a concert at the Rose Bowl, and it was a nice experience. You need to have a password to get in which we didn't know about because we found the place on Yelp, but once we got there the manager had a fun guess game for us to figure it out, and made the experience better. (You can request the password on their Facebook page) It's a big place, and once you are inside you order from the bar and it's open seating. That day they were playing music related to the concert we we at so I don't know what type of music they usually play, but the service was good and friendly and it was a fun experience. Certainly going back if around the area. read more
11 months ago
This was my 1st time here but I guess in my mind I thought this was like the old school black Southern speak easy's with lounge chairs and low jazz music playing. The vibe was cool but the music was so loud you had to yell over it so its more like a bar. No password is needed right now to get in just a little wait at the doors. Not sure if I'll come back... read more
From obtaining the password online to locating and entering the speakeasy, my friends and I had a great time enjoying the dark, electric swing music as well as drinking and snacking on appetizers here! This speakeasy is a very large establishment and suitable for a larger party. At the bar, there were loads of fresh herbs sitting in water waiting to be muddled and garnished in drinks. They had special cocktails for St. Patrick's weekend and I really enjoyed the mule that I ordered. The ginger beer was very forward and I highly recommend it if you're into that. As for food, the calamari and dipping sauce our favorite! I couldn't tell if the calamari or sauce had a kick to it, but I love that it was actually had some heat. The fries are average, could use some seasoning but the ranch sauce saved it. Attentive service and very fun "modern" speakeasy experience. read more
2 years ago
Updating my review and again giving this place 5 stars. They do not disappoint because this place is always on point. We got espresso martinis with tequila and they were so delicious! My other friend got the kitty killer and absolutely loved it! Everyone who works there makes drinks with such attention to detail and it shows in the quality and taste of the drinks. The vibe inside is great because they require you to keep your phones away. No flash or videos which makes it an environment where you can be present and in the moment. I love how the password and entrance changes depending on the day and time. It really elevates this location and it is always packed. I will keep coming back as this is definitely one of my favorite places in Pasadena. 10 out of 10 recommend! read more
More info about The Speakeasy
25 N Raymond Ave
Pasadena, CA 91103
Downtown
Directions
(626) 676-1205
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Visit Website
http://www.speakeasypasadena.com/
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Ask the Community - The Speakeasy
Do they have mocktails for those who don't partake in alcohol but want the experience?
Yes! Just ask the bartender for a mocktail and they will suggest something.
What is the password?? I emailed for tonight and nothing yet. :(
Chicken, potato, give me your banano
What kind of music do they play?
Depends on the night I'm sure. I went on a Saturday and it was a bit of a edm chill vibe. It was cool
Do they have food?
Yes! They have really good snacks. Wouldn't call it dinner-like tho.
Are vax cards required for entry?
Proof of full vaccination and photo idea to match the name on the vaccination card or digital file is required.
Where's the best place to park for easy access?
Across the street in a parking garage. As soon as you walk out the garage to the street,the speakeasy is directly across the street.
Do they allow cigar smoking inside?
No way - Pasadena is tough only place is the cigar ship on green - good smokes there
Is there music playing on Saturday nights?
They had music on a Friday night so I'm sure they'll have it on a Saturday.
Is there dancing?
There is dancing once the night gets going (there's a DJ), but it's not a full-fledged dance club.
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